Invisible dental braces—better known as clear aligners—have become one of the most sought-after orthodontic treatments for adults and teens who want a straighter smile without fixed brackets and wires. If you’re comparing invisible braces options or browsing Clear Aligners UK providers, one question quickly rises to the top: what exactly is included in the clear aligners price—and will I pay extra for retainers and refinements?
This guide breaks down the real-world costs so you can budget confidently, avoid surprise add-ons, and choose the right clinic with clarity. At pro-aligners, they are providing invisible dental treatment from £1000. Contact them for treatment.
What does the “base” price usually include?
When clinics advertise the price of clear aligners, they typically mean the core treatment to move your teeth from A to B. In most London clinics, that base package commonly covers your initial 3D scan or impressions, a personalised digital treatment plan, your staged series of aligner trays, and a set number of review appointments to monitor progress. Some providers also include minor attachments (small tooth-coloured bumps to help specific movements) and interproximal reduction (gentle space-making) where clinically indicated.
However, base packages can differ a lot between Clear Aligners London providers. One clinic’s “comprehensive” plan might include unlimited aligners over a fixed timeframe, while another caps the number of aligner stages and charges for additional refinements. Always ask for a written breakdown of inclusions before you commit, especially if you’re comparing clinics across London and wider Clear Aligners UK chains.
Why retainers matter—and where they fit into the cost
Once your teeth are straight, they naturally try to drift back. Retainers are the seatbelt that keeps your investment safe. There are two common types: removable clear retainers (which look like thin aligners but don’t move teeth) and fixed retainers (a slim wire bonded behind the teeth). Most patients in London will use removable retainers nightly, at least in the first year, with many continuing long-term to maintain results.
Because retainers are essential to preserve your outcome, many patients assume they’re included in the invisible teeth braces price. Sometimes they are—but not always. Some clinics include one set of retainers; others include two sets; some charge separately for every set. If you grind your teeth or misplace retainers, you may need replacements in future, so it’s sensible to ask the clinic what replacement costs look like and whether a retainer subscription or protection plan is available.
What are “refinements”—and will they cost extra?
In aligner treatment, “refinements” are additional aligner stages ordered near the end (or sometimes mid-course) to perfect details that didn’t track exactly as planned. This is normal and doesn’t mean anything has “gone wrong”; orthodontic biology varies, and refinements are part of individualising your final result.
Whether refinements cost extra depends on your plan. Some invisible dental braces packages include one or more rounds of refinements within a set timeframe. Others limit the number of refinements or aligner stages and then charge a fee for additional sets. This is a key point to clarify before signing: ask how many refinements are included, whether there’s a time limit (e.g., refinements included for 12 or 24 months from start), and what happens if you need more.
If you’re evaluating invisible braces London quotes, a slightly higher upfront fee that includes unlimited refinements for a set period might deliver better value and predictability than a cheaper entry price that bills per refinement.
Factors that influence the clear aligners price in London
The price of clear aligners varies by complexity, provider expertise, materials, clinic overheads, and support level. In London, you’re also paying for city-centre operating costs and extended hours, which can add to the fee. Other drivers include:
Clinical complexity: Mild crowding vs. complex bite correction will change the number of aligners, chair time, and potential refinements.
Treatment brand and lab costs: Different systems have different laboratory fees and accessory protocols.
Therapeutic extras: Attachments, precision cuts, elastics, and auxiliary appliances can increase chair time (not always the patient-visible cost, but it can be reflected in package tiers).
Follow-up and aftercare: Some clinics bundle more clinician review, 3D scans, and post-treatment checks, which can be preferable if you value in-person oversight.
When reading Clear Aligners UK offers online, look beyond the headline number. Two clinics might advertise a similar clear aligners price, but one includes retainers and two refinement rounds while the other charges separately—leading to very different total costs by the time you finish.
Typical components of your total investment
To budget realistically, think in terms of “treatment lifecycle” rather than just the tray series:
Pre-treatment assessments: Consultation, digital scan, and treatment simulation. Some clinics discount or credit these if you proceed.
Active aligner treatment: The staged aligners, attachments, and check-ins.
Refinements (if needed): Extra aligners to dial in details.
Retention phase: First set (or sets) of retainers, plus future replacements.
Aftercare and monitoring: Review appointments after completion, particularly in the first year.
If you want a single number to plan around, ask each clinic to quote a total treatment fee that includes: all clinically required aligners for your case (including refinements within a defined period), at least one or two sets of retainers, and post-treatment reviews. Then you can compare total values across Clear Aligners London providers without worrying about asterisks.
Do retainers usually cost extra?
Many clinics separate retainers from the active aligner fee, especially if they offer a range of retainer options (clear removable vs fixed wire). In London, it’s common to see one set of removable retainers included—and a discount on a second back-up set. If you are prone to grinding or travel frequently, a second set upfront can save time and cost later. Fixed retainers, if chosen, are sometimes billed separately due to chair time and materials.
If you’re comparing the invisible teeth braces price, ensure you know:
How many retainer sets are included and whether they’re upper and lower.
The cost of additional sets if you lose or damage them.
Whether a fixed retainer is available, and its fee.
The recommended wear schedule and review appointments post-treatment.
Do refinements cost extra?
It depends entirely on the package structure. Some London clinics include one or two refinement rounds at no added charge if started within a defined window after your first course. Others offer “unlimited aligners” for a fixed period (for example, up to 18–24 months), which can provide peace of mind for complex movements. Pay-as-you-go models may charge a lab fee and clinician time per refinement set, which can add up if your case needs multiple tweaks.
If predictability matters, ask for a plan that includes at least one refinement round or a time-boxed unlimited option. That way, your clear aligners price reflects the likely path to an excellent finish, not just the best-case scenario.
Finance options and value vs price
Many clinics offer instalment plans, often interest-free over a short term, to make the investment manageable. When comparing finance, check whether the plan covers just the active aligners or also includes retainers and refinements. A slightly higher monthly payment that bundles everything can be more affordable than a lower one with add-ons later.
Remember, value isn’t just the lowest sticker price. Clinical experience, case supervision by a GDC-registered dentist/orthodontist, emergency support, and transparent aftercare often lead to smoother journeys and fewer costly surprises.
How to compare quotes fairly
When you request quotes from Clear Aligners London providers, ask each clinic to confirm the following in writing:
What’s included in the advertised price of clear aligners (scans, attachments, reviews)?
How many aligners and/or what timeframe is covered?
Are refinements included? If yes, how many or for how long?
Are retainers included? How many sets, and which type?
What’s the fee for replacement retainers?
What aftercare and review appointments are included post-treatment?
Once you have this, you can place total packages side by side and see which clinic provides the most comprehensive value for your invisible dental braces journey.
Frequently asked questions (short and practical)
Will I always need refinements?
Not always, but it’s common and completely normal. Refinements fine-tune tracking and polish the finish. Choosing a package that anticipates this is wise.
How long will I wear retainers?
Plan for long-term use. Nightly wear is typical in year one, then a maintenance schedule as advised by your clinician. Think of retainers as long-term smile insurance.
Are mail-order aligners cheaper?
Some are, but in-person assessments, precise attachment placement, and regular reviews with a clinician can improve outcomes and reduce the risk of mid-course issues that lead to extra costs.
Can I get a fixed retainer instead of removable?
Often yes. Many patients choose both: a fixed retainer for day-to-day stability and a removable retainer at night. Fixed retainers may be priced separately.
The smart way to plan your budget
If you’re comparing Clear Aligners UK or invisible braces London pricing, look beyond the base invisible teeth braces price to the complete treatment lifecycle: active aligners, potential refinements, retainers, and aftercare. Ask for a transparent, all-in quote that covers what you’ll realistically need to reach—and keep—your ideal result. That’s how you avoid hidden extras and feel confident that your smile plan is as clear as your aligners.
